The best photo editing software

By Stephen Slaybaugh and Nikki Dual Published November 14, 2025

Once the purview of photographers and graphic design professionals, photo editing is something most of us now do on a daily basis. AI is shaking up photo editing and fast. With the influx of smart tools, increased capability of mobile devices, rise of cloud syncing, and shifting pricing models, it’s a whole new game. Whether you’re just touching up selfies or you’re managing RAW files, picking the right app matters more than ever. With our most recent update to the article (November 2025), you’re getting the latest features, pricing, and software worth your storage space.

Before you make your selection, here’s what to keep in mind:

Advertisement

For a limited time, individuals can save on Creative Cloud Pro, now $34.97/month for the first 12 months (regularly $69.99/month). Offer valid on direct purchases and trials that convert to paid plans.

Photoshop is still the heavyweight champ for pro-level photo editing. To retain the crown, they’re leaning even harder into AI. The January update (v26.3) brought smarter Frame Tool integration with Firefly-generated content. Spring and summer releases followed up with sharper auto selections (for people and objects), better removal tools, and new generative features like Harmonize, which automatically blends inserted elements to match color, lighting, and tone.

Creative professionals, photo editors, designers who need full control over layers, masks, composites, and work across all mediums (desktop, mobile, and cloud).

Take advantage of Black Friday pricing and get 50% off for Creative Cloud Pro (you’ll get Photoshop, Lightroom, Illustrator, Premiere Pro, After Effects, InDesign, and more). Promo price is $34.97 per month (regular price $69.99 per month). Valid for the first 12 months on direct purchases or trial with purchase.

If you’re working with RAW files, complex composites, or pro-level projects, Photoshop is the way to-go. Considering the Black Friday promo at 50% off, this is a good deal for anyone and you get more than just Photoshop.

Luminar Neo is built for photographers who want powerful edits without the Photoshop learning curve. It comes with great AI tools, it’s easy to use, and works smoothly across devices. Highlights are GenExpand, Water Enhancer AI, and Color Transfer which make this a very solid choice at a competitive price.

Great for hobbyists, creators, and photo enthusiasts who want quick, eye-catching edits. Landscapes, portraits, and social content will receive professional polish without having to deep-dive into pro-level tools.

Black Friday 2025 promotion: discounts up to 77% for new users. Regularly $417 to $546, discounted to $99 to $159.

If you edit photos often enough and want pro-level results without the hassle / learning curve, Luminar Neo hits the sweet spot. It’s a smart pick and solid discount.

Affinity Photo (now under Canva) has long been a top pick for one-time purchase editing. With some big changes in 2025, the suite is now unified and the core app is “free forever,” but you do have to pay for the optional AI upgrades if you want more power.

Perfect for budget-savvy creators, freelancers, and hobbyists who want real editing power without the monthly fees. If you’re juggling photo, vector, and layout work in one place, Affinity Photo is great for you.

The core app is free as mentioned above, the optional subscription tiers to unlock some AI features is around $15 per month or $120 billed annually.

Affinity Pro will get you pro editing without the subscription. It’s a steal if you are not too caught up on AI features.